"Baby Shark" Craze Sparks Surge in South Korean Studio's IPO

In November 2025, the South Korean studio behind the ultra-catchy "Baby Shark" video experienced a surge in its share price as it made its market debut in Seoul. The "Baby Shark Dance" video, which was posted on YouTube nearly a decade ago, has become a global phenomenon, racking up more than 16 billion views - roughly double the second-most viewed clip.

The Pinkfong Company, which owns the "Baby Shark" franchise as well as a portfolio of other children's animation and educational content, saw its shares rise by as much as 60% in morning trading. The company's revenue grew 11% to 97.4 billion won last year, while its operating profit nearly quadrupled to 18.8 billion won.

Analysts say the surge in share price is a normal occurrence for an initial public offering (IPO), with newly listed stocks typically expected to rise by around 30 to 40 percent on their first day of trading. The Pinkfong Company's CEO, Kim Min-seok, has attributed the firm's success to its ability to generate profit directly from its content through its own channels like YouTube and apps, reducing its dependence on external distributors.

The "Baby Shark" phenomenon has become a global sensation, with the catchy tune and its accompanying dance moves captivating young children around the world. The Pinkfong Company's successful market debut is a testament to the enduring popularity of the "Baby Shark" brand and the company's ability to capitalize on its viral success.